The EGR vacuum regulator on a Ford truck is a part of the emissions system. This valve takes some of the exhaust gases created by the engine and recirculates them into the intake manifold, thereby reducing the Ford's emissions. If the EGR valve fails, the "Check Engine" light in your truck will illuminate and the engine will run inefficiently. Before you replace the EGR vacuum regulator, you should test it to make sure that the EGR valve is the problem.
Open the hood. Locate the EGR vacuum pump. It is on the driver's side of the intake manifold, in the back near the throttle body. Examine the vacuum lines leading out of the EGR. Verify that none of the lines are cracked or damaged and that they are fully connected.
Pull off one of the vacuum lines from the EGR valve with your hand. Connect the vacuum pump to the port on the EGR valve.
Pump up the vacuum pump with your hand to approximately 5 to 6 Hg. Observe the gauge on the vacuum pump to determine whether it holds pressure. If it does, the EGR vacuum pump is working correctly. If not, the EGR vacuum pump needs to be replaced.
